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Drunk Driver Accidents

Massachusetts Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer

Serving Lowell, Tewksbury, Middlesex and Surrounding Counties

Since 2002 I have been dedicated to assisting injured victims and their families recover full compensation from those responsible.  I am tenacious in seeking to hold those responsible fully accountable for every penny to which our clients deserve.

Unlike other vehicle accidents, where the actions of another driver are usually not deliberate, drunk drivers make a specific decision to drive after becoming intoxicated.  The accidents, injuries, and death that they cause are entirely preventable and foreseeable.

I understand the physical and emotional pain of those injured and their families.  Lives can be forever changed in the seconds during which a crash takes place.  My goal is to take on the burden of seeking full compensation for our clients while they, and their families, recover.

Dram Shop Laws

Under law, bars and other establishments that over-serve intoxicated patrons may be held liable in part for the damages and injuries that result from drunk driving.  In developing a client’s case, I will want to know what the drunk driver was doing in the hours immediately before causing an accident.  Was the person becoming drunk at a bar?  Is the drunk driver a minor who was served alcohol by an adult?  Once I learn about these circumstances, I then can determine all those who I believe bear responsibility for causing the injuries of my clients.

How We Can Help Protect Ourselves and Loved Ones from Drunk Drivers

When you recognize a drunk driver, it is important to alert the authorities. You could be saving the lives of others on the road. If you are hit by a drunk driver, the impact can take you by surprise and activate your body’s parasympathetic nervous system.

The fight or flight response can manifest itself in a range of symptoms, including:

  • Rapid heart rate
  • Trouble breathing
  • Trance or immobility
  • Shaking or panic attack
  • Loss of hearing or vision
  • Dilation of blood vessels

The temporary effect of being hit can be dangerous, temporarily paralyzing drivers on the road. If you are hit by a drunk driver, try to breathe deeply so your brain receives enough oxygen to react. For your own safety, do not stop and exit the vehicle unless it is safe to do so and do not worry about approaching the drunk driver. Call the police and an ambulance, if necessary.

Drunk Drivers Are Negligent

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is, by definition, negligent behavior. Alcohol and/or drugs can impair drivers in the following ways:

  • Trouble focusing
  • Straddling median
  • Driving below limit
  • Slower reaction time
  • Diminished visibility
  • Following too closely
  • Falling asleep at wheel
  • Delay or failure to brake

Alcohol, drugs, or a combination of substances can impair driving, even in low amounts. . Reduced inhibition and inflated confidence numb drivers to possible dangers, resulting in devastating accidents that severely injure others.

Compensation from Drunk Drivers

Injured victims can recover civil damages from drunk drivers by means of a personal injury or wrongful death claim. The affected parties must show that drunk driving directly caused the accidental injury or death. Successful claimants may be entitled to compensation for:

  • Property damage
  • Vehicle replacement
  • Emergency treatment
  • Medical, hospital costs
  • Lost wages due to injury
  • Future income or earnings
  • Reasonable funeral expense
  • Pain, suffering, emotional loss
  • Lost companionship, guidance

Although drunk drivers are liable for restitution and sanctions in a criminal action, the amount may not fully compensate victims and families for their loss. They have recourse to recover civil damages in a proceeding that is separate and distinct from the criminal case.

How I Help the Victims and Their Families in Drunk Driving Accident Cases

It’s important to conduct a thorough investigation of drunk driving accidents as soon as possible in order to determine liability.  In addition to the drunk driver and possibly a restaurant or establishment that may have over-served the drunk driver, in some cases other parties may be liable for negligence, including construction companies (if an accident occurred in a construction zone), and towns and municipalities (if traffic control signals or other roadway conditions contributed to the accident).

To get started, please call for a free, no-obligation consultation for your case, and to learn about your options for recovery.  I accept drunk driving injury cases on a contingency fee basis, so there is no fee for you unless you recover.


More Information About My Injury & Accident Practice

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What Our Clients Are Saying About Paul King

I was terrified when I was arrested for the first (and last) time, a couple of years ago. (It was a driving-related infraction). Paul King was a professional and matter-of-fact as a lawyer; but also there at any time to answer any questions and concerns throughout the process. My calls were never ignored or left unanswered. He was a true confidante, and thanks to him, i received a fair deal for my first (and last) ever incident. He was tough and honest, but also made me feel that I was not alone.

5 Star Avvo Review – anonymous